As winter approaches, Poland is stepping up efforts to improve road safety by expanding snow removal infrastructure for heavy trucks. Falling snow and ice from truck roofs can be dangerous, causing damage or accidents, which makes thorough vehicle cleaning essential. To address this, the General Directorate for National Roads and Motorways (GDDKiA) is significantly increasing the number of snow removal ramps and blowers available at Motorway Service Areas (MOPs), aiming for more than 70 devices by the end of 2026.
Currently, 13 snow removal facilities are in place, with recent expansions adding eight new ramps this year. These devices are strategically positioned along major expressways such as the A1, A4, S3, and S19, with two newly installed ramps at MOP Widoma on the S7. The goal is to have nine more operational by the end of 2025, while over 50 additional ramps are in various stages of the tender process, aiming to cover key routes across the country.
Despite the mild temperatures now, GDDKiA is preparing for imminent cold weather and snowfall. The initiative highlights a gap in logistics infrastructure, where even specialized truck depots lack proper snow removal facilities. By integrating ramp requirements into MOP leasing agreements, Poland is poised to become one of the few European nations with an extensive network of snow removal devices, rivaling countries like Germany and surpassing others with only limited installations.
Mandatory construction of ramps is already underway at 17 locations, including key sites on the A2 and S19 highways, while plans for an additional 17 ramps are in the pipeline. GDDKiA is also considering optional ramp installations at several other MOPs, where the demand for such infrastructure may arise.
While GDDKiA’s expansion efforts are setting a new standard, the logistics industry is also expected to contribute by equipping transport hubs with snow removal facilities. This coordinated approach aims to ensure safer winter driving conditions across Poland, setting a benchmark in road safety for other European countries.